“Five silver marks and not a copper less.” grumbled the big, barrel shaped man before resolutely folding his arms across his heavy chest.

“This is daylight robbery!” exclaimed the thin man, turning to his quiet companion. “It would seem that nobody in this backwater ever heard of Ash, the Slayer.” The man’s silent companion simply smiled and nodded grimly. “Listen here friend,” begins the thin man, turning back towards the merchant.

“I am not your friend, traveler. If you need coin and lodging, I suggest you head on over to the Dancing Maiden. If you need fish.” The big man paused, studying the two dusty travelers standing before his stall. “I suggest that you pay five silver marks and then leave.” As an afterthought he added, “You have a bad smell about you.” before superstitiously making the sign of Jar, the Protector God.

Turning red the thin man took a step towards the fish monger when a heavy hand touched his shoulder. “You heard the man, Cy. Let’s head for the Dancing Maiden.” Frozen in place Cy glowered at the merchant before turning to his companion. “As you say Ash. Besides, the stink of fish has made me lose my appetite.” Smiling beneath his hood, Ash nodded then led the way towards the center of the dusty town.

Nobody alive could tell exactly where the inn got its name from. “Surely no maidens have danced in this place during the last hundred years.” grumbled Cy as they sat down at a small table. Dust motes glittered in the air like dying stars. Despite the oppressive heat, or perhaps because of it, several locals cramped the small common room. The conversation was hushed, muffled in the mid-day heat and dust. A young, blond woman walked up to their table. “What will it be good sirs?”

Cy suddenly brightened, sitting up and flashing a dashing smile at the young woman. “Surely this fine establishment have been named after you, lady.” The blond woman huffed, ignoring the young man before turning towards Ash. “Two ales, if you would be so kind.” He spoke softly from within the deep shadows of his hood. Glancing at him once the woman nods then walks off to the back of the inn. “Ash. Did you see that?”

“See what, Cy?”

“Her attitude. She completely ignored me. Pretended as if I did not even exist!”

Chuckling Ash shook his head before pulling down his hood.